Question:
I need to chose between 2 surgeons.
Sorry to post anonymously, but this is a small town. I have pursued two surgeons, one in town and one out of town. The local surgeon is very good and has a long waiting list. The out of town surgeon is very good and can be seen sooner. There are other pros and cons to each doctor, including the local doc's waiting time now approaching the same time as the other doc. Sorry this is confusing. Anyway, I will need to make the decision very soon and I have no idea what I am going to do. Bottom line, they seem the same at this point. I have appointments with both. What should I do? — [Anonymous] (posted on January 30, 2002)
January 30, 2002
Go to both appointments and research and investigate their experience.
Also, your insurance may only cover the in-network doc. I wouldn't worry
too much about the wait, especially if they are really not that different.
Meet them both, research their experience and go with your gut (or maybe
insurance approval!! LOL) Shelley
— Shelley.
January 30, 2002
Not that I'm an expert at this by any means, but I had to choose from 2 - 3
surgeons in the Boston area, and I went with the one who works out of a
hospital I am familiar with (I used to work there, so I know their
reputation is great!). I also did my homework and researched him
thoroughly, so I knew he was a good surgeon as well in this field. I guess
what I'm saying is that if you are willing to wait a little bit longer to
see the surgeon who is closer to home and at a hospital you may feel more
comfortable at, I would go with that option. Good luck either way!!! Lisa
— sssuzie1
January 30, 2002
I would also go to visit both of them. There may be other factors that
help make your decision. If both are very experienced with the surgery,
you may think one has a better bed-side manner, or a better follow-up plan.
You should go to the support group meetings (if available)and meet the
patients of the doctors and 'interview' them for an inside look. One may
get you more prepared by having paperwork with a guide to your new eating.
They all do things so differently. Enjoy your journey!
— Cheri M.
January 30, 2002
I, too, had this problem. I couldnt get in to see my first surgeon for over
six months. I wasnt going to wait that long. I decided to go with a
different surgeon who was much closer and could get me in a heck of a lot
sooner. Once I made the decision to have the surgery, I wasnt about to wait
6-9 months to have it done! I was ready now! Do what feels right for you,
but, if youre ready, do what you can to get the ball rolling. Good luck and
God bless!
— Kerry P.
January 30, 2002
If both surgeons are equally competent, I would definitely check out the
office staff too! The surgeon I'm using now has poor office help. I can't
get calls returned, it's hard to get through, etc. If I'd known how hard
the administrative part was going to be, I might have reconsidered my
choice of surgeon. It's been that bad. PS: The doctor knows of the
problem and let's it go on.
— [Anonymous]
January 30, 2002
Check out the staff, the Dr, and the follow up programs. If the Dr. isn't
willing to take you on for life than you don't need him. This is a
procedure that will be with you forever, so should your Dr. Good Luck with
your journey.
— [Anonymous]
January 30, 2002
Here's my advice. I knew right from the git-go that I wanted Lap RNY. So
I'd pick the one with the most Lap experience and go with that one. I
travelled 7 hrs. for my surgery cause the surgeon I selected is one of the
BEST in the eastern part of the U.S. I made a good choice as at 12 weeks
post-op I have had no complications whatsoever.
— Annie H.
January 30, 2002
I would meet and investigate both surgeons thoroughly. Ask lots of
questions about the number of surgeries they have performed; what they
consider a successful outcome to be; what percentage of their patients have
had that successful outcome; how long do they follow their patients (at
least every year for life is the answer you want to hear); can you reach
them if you experience problems or need answers to questions that arise; is
their office staff responsive and resourceful (if you find one that truly
is you've struck gold); is the hospital they are affiliated with well
equipped to handle the needs of larger people; what is the nurse to patient
ratio in that hospital, etc. etc. Be well prepared for your visits and
your decision should be easier. Good luck!
— JoanneML
February 1, 2002
And from my long term view, I'd ask which procedure they do, how it is done
and how the after care is. I can send you a list of questions regarding
these long terms kinds of things if you email me privately.
— vitalady
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